Meera Syal in Romeo And Juliet, playing at the Garrick Theatre (Photo: Johan Persson)

The cast of Les Misérables (Photo: Johan Persson)

Curious Incident Production Shot

The European Stage

Published 22 June 2016

On the eve of the referendum, here are our top shows set sur le continent.

Whether its politics or pitch-side tactics, Europe is the word on everyone’s lips. Whatever your political allegiance or feelings on football, London is home to a number of productions with European countries as their settings. Embrace the trend and book a ticket for a spot of armchair tourism.

Sunset At The Villa Thalia – Greece

Set against the backdrop of political turbulence in 1960s Greece, two couples retreat to an island for peace and tranquillity, but inevitably end up wreaking havoc instead.

The EU factor: sunshine, Greek wine and the sound of the sea.

Romeo And Juliet – Italy

The infamous doomed love story of children of two warring families, using 1950s, Dolce-Vita esque Verona as a setting.

The EU factor: coffees in a sunny piazza, lines of Italian interspersed in the dialogue, elegantissimi costumes.

Don Quixote – Spain

The Bolshoi Ballet brings Cervantes’ classic novel to life, depicting the struggles of young couple Kitri and Basil in order to win over Kitri’s father and marry.

The EU factor: Toreadors, castanets and much fluttering of fans.

Les Misérables – France

An oldie but a goodie. The revolution may be long gone but inequality remains in Paris; a group of idealistic youths attempt to fight on behalf of the people.